Asperger’s Syndrome is a neurobiological disorder that is a part of a group of conditions called Autism spectrum disorders. Autism spectrum disorders can occur in varying ranges of severity. It is estimated that almost 400,000 families in the U.S.A are affected by Asperger’s Syndrome. This piqued my interests towards the topic and provoked me into conducting more research. I soon started watching movies like Rainman which portrayed an autistic individual. I also began reading he websites of specialists on the topic; for example Tony Attwood.
I formulated a hypothesis that, “The media’s portrayal of people with Asperger’s Syndrome both negatively and positively influence public opinion about these individuals.” It was then that I started my research to prove that my hypothesis was correct. I conducted interviews, read books and magazines, watched videos, etc. With inputs from enough sources, I arrived at a conclusion that, my hypothesis is accurate. People with Asperger’s, based on their various actions, are viewed both positively and negatively.
Finally, to conclude my project, I presented my research to an organization called Autism Speaks on November 21, 2011. This presentation was attended by an audience of 13 specialists in the Autism field. The overall purpose of my research was not only to inform the general public about what people with Asperger’s are like, but to help raise awareness that there are individuals with Asperger’s Syndrome out in society who are sensitive to their portrayal. Finally, more than the truth about the feelings of these individuals, I myself have started to feel for these people and will surely be involved in any services for this cause. You can join me by volunteering at Autism Speaks. Here is a comment from the person who gathered an audience to view my presentation; the one who made it all possible, Dina Schwab.
“Thanks to Vijay Krishnan for his interest in learning about autism spectrum disorders, and in helping to raise awareness about this disorder. With this knowledge, Vijay will be able to educate his fellow class mates about the importance of compassion and kindness towards their fellow classmates. Working together with people like Vijay, we can change the future for those who struggle with autism spectrum disorders.” — Dina Schwab, NJ Events Director
Autism Speaks, Princeton office. 1060 State Road, 2nd Floor, Princeton 08540. 609-228-7310; fax, 609-430-9163 or 609-430-9505.
